This article part of our 'Cambridge Spotlight' series, profiling our lawyers based in our Cambridge office. In the series, we find out about their backgrounds, their journey through law and hear why Cambridge is important to them.
I knew I wanted to get into law when … After completing a non-law degree and a relocation to London for what I had hoped would be my 'dream job' (it wasn't), I found myself in an in-house legal team doing French language work. As the language work faded, the legal work grew, and so did my enthusiasm for law.
I came to be in Cambridge because … Having spent eight years at a US firm, I was looking for a role that didn't "force" me to choose between quality work and a life outside of it. TV in Cambridge, was that place.
I chose Employment Law because … The alternative NQ position was Tax. How many reasons would you like me to give, as to why I chose Employment?!
The thing that motivates me most is … Knowing that what I do genuinely matters to my clients. Our clients are often at the forefront of innovation, and being woven into that story — not just as an adviser, but as a real partner in their growth — is something I find deeply rewarding.
The thing that makes Cambridge such a hub of innovation is … The combination of world-class academic thinking and real commercial ambition. Ideas that begin in lecture theatres, routinely become innovative businesses that challenge the competition on a global stage.
One opportunity from the merger is … A brilliant team of Employment knowledge lawyers, with all the expertise that comes with them!
Somebody that has inspired me during my career is … Roger James. He hired me at a moment when my confidence in myself — and in law firms — was at a low ebb. He saw something in me that I hadn't yet seen in myself, and in doing so, kept me "in law". He showed me that the right firm, with the right support and right culture, makes all the difference.
One thing I wish I knew when I started my career is … That understanding the law is really just the beginning. The job places much wider demands on you in aspects such as; sales, business development, finance. administration, and managing people. There are times when self-taught juggling and counselling skills come into play! Nobody tells you that at the outset.
One future trend in my practice area is … AI would be the predictable answer — so let's think again….. The impending changes to collective rights under the Employment Rights Act 2025 will significantly strengthen Trade Union powers, and the vast majority of employers are wholly unprepared. This is an area ripe for Employment lawyers."
The one thing you don't know about me is ... When I need to escape (from work and from the children), I head for open water. I have been swimming outdoors for years, taking on challenges whenever I can, and in 2022 I reached a milestone I am quietly proud of: becoming an official ice swimmer.